Foreword: This is a question that should, and has, been posed to my local chairman. Unfortunately, it being vacation bid season, he has his hands full and hasn't returned my messages as of yet. Regardless, my situation is not common and falls vaguely under federal military labor regs as well, so all informed opinions and advice are welcome.
In January, I'm going on military leave for nearly two years. I've already informed my supervisor and UP labor relations of my pending military service, so I have that covered. What I'm worried about, however, is that I am 2 or 3 engine service classes away from getting a fireman bid.
Does anyone have or know anyone that has had experience with something similar? Would I be able to at least get an engine service seniority date while I am on military leave and then start firing when I return? Or am I going to have to wait until I get back to have my bid accepted?
In January, I'm going on military leave for nearly two years. I've already informed my supervisor and UP labor relations of my pending military service, so I have that covered. What I'm worried about, however, is that I am 2 or 3 engine service classes away from getting a fireman bid.
Does anyone have or know anyone that has had experience with something similar? Would I be able to at least get an engine service seniority date while I am on military leave and then start firing when I return? Or am I going to have to wait until I get back to have my bid accepted?